Intel Graphics Analyser supports Atom powered Android phones

CHIPMAKER Intel has updated its Graphics Performance Analyser to support Android smartphones with Atom processors.

Intel's latest foray into the smartphone market was the San Diego, and while that model didn't set the smartphone world alight, the firm is working hard on allowing developers optimise for its processors. Intel's Graphics Performance Analyser, a tool used to squeeze every last drop of performance from Intel's integrated GPUs, now supports Android smartphones with Intel Atom chips inside.

According to Intel, developers can view more than 20 metrics covering the CPU, GPU and the OpenGL ES API in real time. The firm has also included debugging tools for the Atom's graphics pipeline so developers can evaluate execution efficiency.

While Intel's support of its Atom processors running Android is new, its Graphics Performance Analyser supports other GPUs including Intel's full range of HD Graphics GPUs, including the HD Graphics 4000 found on Ivy Bridge processors.

Intel's delayed entry into the smartphone market means that it needs to push its developer tools hard so developers can optimise for Intel processors. The firm employed a similar tactic with its desktop processors and if it can persuade high profile developers to optimise for its Atom processor then it might be able to swing more business. µ